DOJO – Four people, including three children, were killed and 11 others injured after gunfire erupted during a child’s birthday party at a Stockton banquet hall on Saturday evening. The Stockton mass shooting is now being investigated as a targeted attack, according to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office.
What happened at the birthday party?
The shooting took place just before 6 p.m. inside a banquet hall on Lucile Avenue, where between 100 and 150 people had gathered for a child’s birthday celebration. Deputies confirmed that 14 people were struck by gunfire. The victims who died were ages 8, 9, 14, and 21.
Several of the wounded victims were transported to nearby hospitals. Investigators have not released details on the conditions of those still being treated. Early reports indicated that the scene was chaotic, with neighbors describing rapid gunfire lasting nearly a full minute, followed by screams for help.
Authorities said the gunmen are still at large.
Investigators say the attack appears targeted
During a Sunday briefing, Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Heather Brent said initial evidence suggests the shooting was intentionally directed at individuals at the party. However, she declined to comment on whether gang activity was involved. Detectives from the FBI, Stockton Police, Manteca Police, and the District Attorney’s office are assisting.
“This tragedy is unthinkable,” said San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas. “When this individual is caught, my office will use every resource to hold them fully accountable.”
Reactions from officials and community leaders
California Governor Gavin Newsom called the Stockton mass shooting “horrific” and said state officials are closely monitoring the investigation.
Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi spoke emotionally at the scene, emphasizing that Thanksgiving weekend is supposed to bring families together. “Unfortunately, tonight heaven is a little bigger,” she said. “Families should be together instead of in the hospital praying their loved one survived.”
Vice Mayor Jason Lee also urged calm and cooperation: “A birthday party should never be a place where families fear for their lives. Stockton is my home. This shakes me deeply.”
Neighbors describe chaos
Residents living near Lucile Avenue reported hearing what sounded like multiple shooters and nonstop gunfire. Some said they heard people shouting for ambulances as victims lay injured outside the banquet hall. Video circulating on social media showed medics treating victims on the street as officers blocked off the area.
Authorities also cordoned off sections of Thornton Plaza as investigators searched for leads.
Community response and reward offered
Faith-based leaders plan to hold a community vigil at 3 p.m. Sunday at 9299 Thornton Road. Attendees are urged to bring candles.
The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation announced a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction.
Anyone with information, videos, or witness accounts is encouraged to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office at 209-468-4400, or call Stockton Crime Stoppers anonymously at 209-946-0600.
